The Tour of Paris-Roubaix
These simple farm roads in Northern France transform each Spring with the sound of rattling bikes and screaming fans for the iconic Paris – Roubaix, with names that strike fear into the hearts of riders, these cobbled sectors all have a life, and history of their own – making heroes for a select few, ruining dreams for many. Throwing caution to the wind and powering over these sectors, can lead to an early shower in the Velodrome, or a gladiator’s welcome on the track to the roar of a crowd. Our own classics expert Stefaan Rogiers once again takes us through the history of his beloved races, this time concentrating on the infamous cobbled sectors of Paris Roubaix.
Trouée d’Arenberg (Forest of Arenberg)- The Hell of the North
- Length: 2.3 km
- Rating: ★★★★★
- Location: ~95 km from the finish
What the Koppenberg is for Flanders, the Forest is for Roubaix: epic, mythical, brutal and always a turning point Notorious for crashes, mechanicals and punctures this secteur is feared by all contenders. Due to the narrow and extremely bumpy cobbles the riders fight for positioning before entry making it a true Hell on Earth. Heroes are struck down here, others rise up.
Throwback:
In 1998 Johan Museeuw suffered his horrific crash in the Forest of Arenberg, nearly losing his leg to infection. His recovery was long and painful, lasting close to a year. Many believed he would never return to the top level of professional cycling.
But against all odds, Museeuw made his comeback in early 1999. Then, in 2000, he silenced all doubt by winning Paris-Roubaix for a second time. It was a powerful statement — not just of athletic ability, but of resilience and mental strength. Later, he had a Lion tattooed on his injured leg, symbolizing both the pain he endured and the fighter’s spirit that carried him through it. The image of Museeuw returning to conquer the very race that nearly ended him became one of the most iconic redemption stories in the sport.
Hornaing à Wandignies – Secteur John Degenkolb
- Length: 3.7 km
- Rating: ★★★★☆
- Location: ~80 km from the finish
Hornaing is maybe the odd one out here in this list but with almost four kilometres of cobbles it is the longest sector of the race. It is also one of the sectors closely following Arenberg, further splitting the peloton. It drains the legs before the final showdown. It is named after German cycling legend John Degenkolb.
Throwback:
John Degenkolb won ParisRoubaix in 2015, becoming the first German winner of the race since the 19th century. That victory granted him classic monument winner status and a strong connection with the event.Degenkolb was not only honoured for his victory: he also played a crucial role off the bike by helping to secure the future of the Paris-Roubaix junior race. In 2019, he launched a crowdfunding campaign to support the junior race when it faced a financial shortfall, helping to save it. Because of this contribution to the heritage and future of the race, the organisers decided to honour him by naming the longest cobbled sector after him — an exceptional recognition, especially while the rider is still active.
Mons-en-pévele *****
- Length: 3.0 km
- Rating: ★★★★★
- Location: ~50 km from the finish
Why iconic:
- One of the longest and most grueling sectors
- Often where the first selection among the favorites occurs
- Exposed to wind and weather
Throwback:
In 2010, Fabian Cancellara launched a powerful attack here, beginning his solo domination that led to one of the most impressive wins in Paris-Roubaix history. Tragically it was also the place where Fabian Cancellara fell in 2016 during his last Paris-Roubaix. The year Hayman won. Sagan, who was riding in Cancellara’s slipstream, managed to jump over the fallen Cancellara and miraculously stay upright.
Camphin-en-pévele –
- Length: 1.8 km
- Rating: ★★★★★
- Location: Just before Carrefour de l’Arbre
The Camphin-en-Pévèle cobbled sector — though often overshadowed by its neighbor Carrefour de l’Arbre — has played a crucial tactical role in multiple editions of Paris-Roubaix, especially as it often serves as the launchpad for decisive attacks just before the final showdown. The CamphinenPévèle sector was first included in the ParisRoubaix in 1980. Tight turns, uneven cobles and extremely technical.
Throwback:
In 1984 during the extremely muddy edition of Paris–Roubaix, the Camphin-en-Pévèle cobbled sector played a pivotal role in shaping the race’s outcome. Approximately 45 kilometers from the finish, Sean Kelly launched a decisive attack, targeting the leading duo from La Redoute, Alain Bondue and Gregor Braun. Kelly was soon joined by Rudy Rogiers, and together they bridged the gap to the leaders. Braun couldn’t keep up with Rogiers and Kelly, but Bondue hitched his wagon to theirs. However, on the Camphin-en-Pévèle sector, Bondue suffered a crash, which significantly impacted the race dynamics. This incident effectively reduced the leading group to Kelly and Rogiers, who then entered the Roubaix velodrome together. Kelly, known for his sprinting prowess, outpaced Rogiers to secure his first Paris–Roubaix victory.
Carrefour de l’Arbre *****
- Length: 2.1 km
- Rating: ★★★★★
- Location: 17 km from the finish in Roubaix
Along with the forest of Arenberg this sector is one of the most famous sectors of Paris-Roubaix. Carrefour de l’Arbre is usually the decisive sector in the race. It is very technical with sharp corners, deep ruts, and rough stones. Attacks here often lead to victory.
Throwback:
In 2007, in the final phase of the race, around the brutal Carrefour de l’Arbre sector, the peloton descended into chaos as top contenders like Tom Boonen, Leif Hoste, and Juan Antonio Flecha saw their chances slip away due to crashes, mechanical issues, and sheer exhaustion. Stuart O’Grady, coming from a chasing group, launched a well-timed move just before this crucial sector. One by one, he reeled in the remnants of the early breakaway, and by the time he emerged from the Carrefour cobbles with around 15 kilometers to go, he was alone at the front, riding toward a historic solo victory.
Join The Next Tour
At Roubaix the cobbles decide who becomes a legend.
If you’re ready to experience these iconic roads for yourself and be part of cycling history, don’t miss the chance to join our upcoming tours. Whether you’re aiming to tackle the famous climbs or soak in the electric atmosphere of the Spring Classics, we’ve got the perfect tour for you.
Join us for the ultimate experience — Book your spot now for the VIP 4 Day Paris Roubaix Weekend or explore all of our Spring Classics tours.
